India has moved from being a major importer of defence equipment to a nation that designs, develops, manufactures and increasingly exports advanced defence systems, Union Minister of State for Power and New and Renewable Energy Shripad Yesso Naik said as he positioned defence self-reliance as a cornerstone of India’s rise as a strong, secure and self-assured global power.
For more defence news, views and updates, visit: Fortress India
While addressing a press conference in New Delhi on Thursday, he observed that indigenous platforms such as LCA Tejas, LCH Prachand, ATAGS, Akash missile systems, radars, corvettes, armoured vehicles and drones are significantly enhancing the operational readiness and combat capability of India’s armed forces.
The minister said Operation Sindoor marked a milestone in India’s journey towards technological self-reliance in drone warfare, layered air defence and electronic warfare, demonstrating the operational relevance of Atmanirbharta.
Speaking about the future of India’s defence, he said Mission Sudarshan Chakra, which aims at neutralising enemy defence infiltrations and strengthening India’s offensive and protective capabilities, symbolises speed, precision and decisive power. He said this underscores India’s commitment to strategic autonomy and a rapid, effective response. Under this mission, an expanded nationwide security shield is envisaged, with enhanced protection of public spaces and critical areas by 2035, reflecting a long-term, self-reliant approach to national security, the minister said.
ALSO READ: What does the new US National Security Strategy mean for India
He noted that the defence sector has undergone a structural transformation from import dependence to indigenous capability, and said defence production reached an all-time high of ₹1.54 lakh crore in FY 2024–25, rising from ₹46,429 crore in 2014–15. India has supplied a wide spectrum of defence products—including ammunition, arms, sub-systems, complete systems and critical components—to around 80 countries, he added.
He hailed the contribution of the private sector in defence, saying it has risen to about 23 per cent of India's total defence production, even as Defence Public Sector Undertakings continue to play a critical role in it.
